Hiking in Antarctica
Imagine standing high up on a slope, overlooking an ice-filled bay. Wind ruffles the surface of the bay, kayaks glide across it and you smile as you realize that Antarctica is everything you imagined it would be. Images of snow, ice, mountains and glaciers dominate our ideas of what we will experience on a voyage to Antarctica. We will introduce you to a new view of Antarctica! On every voyage, we will plan to offer hikes for the more active traveller. This will not happen on every excursion, however with our extensive experience in the peninsula region, we have some good hikes in mind for each voyage.
Who can do it?
Where possible, our hikes will be two to three hours in duration and will be negotiating challenging terrain without the assistance of trails. If you are unsure about your ability to participate in the activity, please discuss your concerns with our hiking guide. There are options on most excursions for shorter walks, often up to excellent viewpoints, that don't require hiking boots and any other equipment.
What is provided?
Although our hikes take place only in areas where we have deemed it safe to travel, our guide does carry safety equipment. We also have trekking poles onboard for your use and snowshoes to help improve your traction on slick services and deep snow.
What you need to bring?
The Lacrosse expedition rubber boots One Ocean Expeditions provides on board have a supportive and heel cupping footbed. For most hikes in Antarctica these boots would suffice. Should you have specific podiatric needs, please bring your own footwear as you see fit. For departures in the Falkland Islands and South Georgia, hiking boots are required for some of the hikes offered. In addition, it is good to have a small knapsack in order to carry some water and an extra layer of clothing in case the weather changes.
Hiking in the Arctic
As you trek alongside miniature shrubs, arctic poppies and Arctic Hare you are amazed at the serenity encapsulated in the Arctic wilderness. As motion on a high point catches your eye, you realize you and the group are watching the movement of a musk ox heard looking for a choice grazing spot. Or maybe during this hike, you find yourself reveling in the awe-inspiring views achieved at the top of the next hillock.
Who can do it?
Where possible, our hikes will be two to three hours in duration and will be negotiating challenging terrain without the assistance of trails. If you are unsure about your ability to participate in the activity, please discuss your concerns with our hiking guide. There are options on most excursions for shorter walks, often up to excellent viewpoints, that don't require hiking boots and any other equipment.
What is provided?
Although our hikes take place only in areas where we have deemed it safe to travel, our guide does carry safety equipment. We also have trekking poles onboard for your use.
What you need to bring?
You will require stout hiking boots and breathable hiking socks for hiking in the Arctic. In addition, it is good to have a small knapsack in order to carry some water and an extra layer of clothing in case the weather changes. Sunglasses, insect repellant, sunscreen, camera, and of course your enthusiasm. Keep in mind that we get ashore via inflatable zodiac, so it may be necessary to wear your rubber boots and change into your hiking boots onshore. Site specific information will be available prior to each excursion.
Hiking in Polar Bear country?
Our Arctic program is at the forefront for passenger and staff safety. Whilst traversing these northern landscapes we ensure our guides are well trained and have the appropriate skills and safety gear necessary for the activity chosen. We do have firearm handlers on our staff, who are highly trained and have the common goal of never requiring the use of their firearm. By following stringent site clearing guidelines developed by years of experience, One Ocean Expeditions works diligently to ensure your safety at all times.
